Why Squirrels Aren’t Afraid of us.
Squirrels aren’t inherently afraid of all humans, all the time. Here’s a breakdown of why they might seem less fearful than other wild animals:
- Habituation: Squirrels in urban and suburban areas are accustomed to human presence. They may have learned that humans aren’t always a direct threat, especially if they associate humans with potential food sources like bird feeders or overflowing trash cans.
- Resource Focus: Squirrels are primarily driven by basic needs like finding food and shelter. If they’re fixated on a tasty nut or a cozy nesting spot near human activity, their focus might outweigh their fear of humans, at least momentarily.
- Varying Risk Assessment: Not all humans pose the same threat to a squirrel. A child playing in the park might be less intimidating than a person approaching with a rake or a loud barking dog. Squirrels can assess situations and adjust their fear response accordingly.
- Limited Predatory Threat: While humans can be a potential danger, squirrels in urban areas may not have many natural predators to fear. This can make them bolder than their wild counterparts who face constant threats from foxes, hawks, or owls.
However, it’s important to remember that squirrels are still wild animals. They can be unpredictable and may exhibit fearfulness if they feel cornered, threatened, or startled. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Sudden Movements: Quick or jerky movements can trigger a squirrel’s flight response. If you want to observe them, be patient and stay still.
- Loud Noises: Yelling or loud noises will likely scare squirrels away. Approach them calmly and quietly.
- Direct Threats: If you make any aggressive gestures or try to corner a squirrel, it will definitely be afraid.
